Researchers have identified a small subset of dendritic cells that can suppress T-cell responses, potentially treating tumors and autoimmune diseases. Experimental immunosuppressive agents are being explored for their ability to target this subset, offering new hope for patients with transplanted organs and autoimmune conditions.
Finnish investigators found that higher levels of physical activity were associated with a slower rate of decline in pulmonary function with aging. The study, which followed middle-age men over 25 years, suggests that regular exercise can delay the onset of age-related lung function decline.
Researchers found that Cripto overexpression inhibits Activin signaling, leading to increased tumor cell growth. Antibody blockade of Cripto suppresses tumor cell growth in xenograft models, suggesting a central role for Cripto in tumorigenesis.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) accepts applications for several research fellowships to support salary and benefits for postdoctoral and clinical fellows. The deadline is Wednesday, October 15, 2003, and awards are open to researchers worldwide.
The AACR-Gertrude B. Elion Cancer Research Award supports meritorious basic, translational, or clinical cancer research by a tenure-track scientist at an academic institution worldwide. Five Career Development Awards will be granted in 2004 to support research in various areas of cancer research.
The sequencing of Pseudomonas syringae genome will help scientists understand how bacteria adapt to host organisms, enabling the development of new therapies. The genome also reveals commonalities between plant and animal pathogens.
A Mayo Clinic study found that middle-aged and older adults who engage in regular aerobic exercise can maintain increased insulin sensitivity for up to four days after their last workout. However, this effect is not seen in those over 40, highlighting the importance of frequent exercise for preventing or treating Type 2 diabetes.
A second gene, zinc metalloproteinase (ZMPSTE24), has been identified as a cause of the rare skeletal disorder mandibuloacral dysplasia (MAD). Mutations in this gene may also lead to premature aging, generalized loss of body fat and early death.
Many low-income Medicare beneficiaries will struggle with high drug costs despite new proposals in Congress. Beneficiaries living on $10,000-$20,000 annually face significant financial hardship due to limited coverage and increased out-of-pocket expenses.
Regularly scheduled use of inhaled beta-agonists can result in airway hyperresponsiveness and prolonged asthmatic attacks, according to recent studies. Researchers suggest that targeting phospholipase C-beta may offer a new treatment approach for asthma patients.
Asthma patients treated with bronchodilating beta-agonist medications may develop increased sensitivity to airway constriction, experience exacerbation of their condition. Researchers suggest that therapeutics targeting phospholipase C-beta may have substantial benefit in the treatment of asthma.